City Council Platform
My platform is meant to be simple and easy to understand. I have ideas that can help the City grow and prosper; however, I need to convince at least five others that my ideas are worthwhile and attainable. Any promise can be met with money, but being fiscally responsible for Sarnia's taxpayers MUST be top of mind. Any borrowing or spending MUST have a payback for the City and its citizens.
Platform Particulars
The following are my priorities in order of importance; although, to be effective, all of them must be equal and top of mind at all times. These are my promises and direction if elected.
Colaboration
I will be respectful and civil at City Council meetings and in my interactions with the public. I will collaborate and work constructively with my fellow councillors and the mayor to find solutions to the City of Sarnia's problems and to advance our city. I will put Sarnia FIRST whenever any council majority decision is made (even if I do not agree with it) and be on board with making it the right decision. I believe that a unified council will attract industry and people to our city.
Fiscal Responsibility
I will work to keep Sarnia affordable. Sarnia MUST put in place GOALS and a plan(s) to meet those goals. Any investment or borrowing must have a payback plan to grow the city's tax base and enrich the city for its citizens. Any growth for the City MUST be sustainable at the present tax base, or there MUST be a plan in place to pay for the growth in the form of jobs. Affordable housing development has to be part of this goal. Sarnia needs new industry and businesses - JOBS. I will work diligently to help attract new businesses and industry to Sarnia. There are existing mechanisms that can be enhanced and new ideas to work with.
Active Transportation
– I will be advocating for Active Transportation in the City. Every citizen of Sarnia deserve to be able to get around Sarnia safely. This means walking, riding a bicycle, a Scotter, or in a car. The rules for each one of these modes of transport must be spelled out and followed by users. Active transportation also improves the health of the Citizens of our City, which is a win for Sarnia.
Transparent Leadership
I will be transparent as a City Councillor. There will be consistent community outreach when I am elected. I will be available via email, social media, and text, and I will also hold regular neighbourhood meetings to listen to concerns and better understand Sarnia citizens' needs. I would also like to put together an educational mechanism to explain why council decisions are made and how they will affect the goals and plans the new council will put in place.